Elon Musk's AI startup, xAI, has agreed to sign the safety and security chapter of the European Union's voluntary AI Code of Practice. However, the company has expressed reservations about the other two chapters, focusing on transparency and copyright, stating they could stifle innovation and represent an overreach in terms of copyright provisions.
xAI's decision to sign the safety chapter demonstrates its support for AI risk management and mitigation measures. Nevertheless, the company is concerned that certain requirements in the code could hinder innovation, particularly those related to copyright and transparency. By signing the safety chapter, xAI aims to provide legal clarity and certainty for its operations within the EU's regulatory landscape.
The response from xAI contrasts with other tech giants. Google has confirmed it will sign the entire code of practice, while Microsoft is likely to follow suit. On the other hand, Meta has opted out of the code entirely, citing concerns over legal uncertainties and obligations that exceed the scope of the AI Act.
As the EU continues to shape its AI regulatory framework, the decisions of these tech companies will likely have significant implications for the future of AI development and deployment in the region.